Nintendo Switch Lite Announced, Launches September 20

Nintendo has announced the Nintendo Switch Lite, the long-rumored portable-only version of their Nintendo Switch console.

The new portable-only console is launching on September 20th, worldwide, for $199.99. Featured above, you can view a new trailer for the handheld.

Key differences with the new piece of hardware is the lack of HD Rumble (as there are no detachable Joy-Cons), no kickstand, no Nintendo Labo support, and with the overall smaller, more portable size – it can only be played in handheld mode. There is an all-new D-Pad, however. The Switch Lite can play all Switch games that support handheld mode, however some will have restrictions.

Here’s a rundown on the new hardware:

Adding Nintendo Switch Lite to the lineup gives gamers more color and price point options,” said Nintendo of America President Doug Bowser. “Now consumers can choose the system that best suits how they like to play their favorite Nintendo Switch games.”

The flagship Nintendo Switch launched in March 2017 and offers three different play modes: playing in TV mode by placing the system into a Nintendo Switch dock, playing cooperatively or competitively in tabletop mode by sharing Joy-Con controllers and playing in handheld mode. The system comes with either Gray Joy-Con controllers or Neon Red and Neon Blue Joy-Con controllers.

Nintendo Switch Lite has integrated controls and is smaller than the flagship version of Nintendo Switch. It has no kickstand and, as a dedicated handheld gaming device, does not support video output to a TV. Therefore, it does not come with a dock or HDMI cable. For a full list of the differences between Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite, visit https://www.nintendo.com/switch/compare.

The new device can play all games in the robust Nintendo Switch library that support handheld mode*, although some games will have restrictions. Compatible game modes will be listed on the back of game packaging and in Nintendo eShop.